Name: cabbage stir fry Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1 medium head cabbage (About 1.5 lbs, thinly sliced); 1 large carrot (Julienned); 1 large red bell pepper (Thinly sliced); 4 stalks green onions (Chopped); 3 cloves garlic (Minced); 1 inch piece ginger (Grated); 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (Adjust to taste); Salt (to taste); Pepper (to taste); Cooked rice or noodles (for serving)

Jump to Recipe

There’s something truly delightful about a well-made cabbage stir fry that brings a vibrant mix of crisp textures and bold flavors to the table. This dish is a perfect balance of sweet and spicy, with tender yet crunchy cabbage and colorful vegetables all dancing in a savory sauce. It’s quick, healthy, and bursting with freshness — the kind of recipe that feels like comfort food but shines bright with every bite. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting to experiment with stir-fries, this cabbage stir fry is bound to become one of your go-to favorites for fast, satisfying meals.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this recipe is as simple as it is satisfying. Each component plays a clear, essential role — from the crunch of the cabbage to the warmth of the garlic and ginger, all the way to that hint of nuttiness from the sesame oil. Together, they create a melody of taste, texture, and color that’s incredibly inviting.

Medium head cabbage: About 1.5 pounds, thinly sliced to ensure quick cooking and perfect crunch.
Large carrot: Julienned for a slight sweetness and pop of vibrant orange color.
Large red bell pepper: Thinly sliced to add a juicy, sweet bite and brilliant red hue.
Vegetable oil: Two tablespoons to provide the perfect frying medium with a neutral taste.
Garlic cloves: Minced, giving the stir fry its inviting aroma and depth of flavor.
Ginger piece: About an inch, grated to add a warm, spicy zest that wakes up the palate.
Soy sauce: Two tablespoons to bring in savory umami and saltiness.
Sesame oil: One tablespoon for a fragrant, nutty finish that makes this stir fry truly special.
Red pepper flakes: One teaspoon, adjustable to your preference, adding a little kick that’s never overwhelming.
Green onions: Four stalks, chopped to top the dish with freshness and mild oniony flavor.
Salt and pepper: To taste, ensuring everything is perfectly seasoned.
Cooked rice or noodles: Optional, great for turning the stir fry into a full meal.

How to Make cabbage stir fry

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Start by washing all your fresh produce thoroughly. Thinly slice the cabbage to keep the stir fry light and crunchy. Julienning the carrot and thinly slicing the red bell pepper will help them cook evenly and add fantastic texture and color contrasts. Having everything prepped before the heat hits the pan makes the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Step 2: Heat the Oil and Aromatics

Place a large frying pan or wok over medium-high heat and pour in the vegetable oil. Once hot, add your minced garlic and grated ginger. Stir-fry them quickly for about 30 seconds until those irresistible scents fill your kitchen. This step releases their flavors beautifully without burning them, creating the perfect base for your cabbage stir fry.

Step 3: Add Carrot and Red Bell Pepper

Toss in the julienned carrot and red bell pepper slices. Stir-fry for 2 to 3 minutes just until they start to soften. You want to keep a bit of their crunch and vibrant color — it’s all about that wonderful texture contrast that makes every bite exciting.

Step 4: Cook the Cabbage

Now add the thinly sliced cabbage to the pan. Stir continuously for 5 to 7 minutes, allowing the cabbage to soften just enough while still maintaining a crisp bite. This balance is key: tender but never soggy. It’s where the magic of cabbage stir fry really shines.

Step 5: Season and Finish

Pour in the soy sauce and sesame oil, then sprinkle the red pepper flakes on top. Stir well so every piece of vegetable gets an even coating of that rich, flavorful sauce. Season with salt and pepper to your liking, then fold in the chopped green onions last to keep their fresh brightness intact. Remove the pan from heat and get ready to serve!

How to Serve cabbage stir fry

Garnishes

A simple garnish can elevate your cabbage stir fry to the next level. Try sprinkling some toasted sesame seeds for a nutty crunch or a handful of fresh cilantro to add herbal brightness. A wedge of lime on the side is fantastic too, offering a zesty burst of acidity that complements the richness of the dish.

Side Dishes

This cabbage stir fry is wonderfully versatile, pairing perfectly with fluffy steamed rice or your favorite noodles to soak up all the saucy goodness. If you want a heartier meal, consider a side of grilled chicken or pan-seared tofu for added protein that blends seamlessly with the stir fry’s flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress guests or just brighten up your weeknight meal? Serve the cabbage stir fry in vibrant bowls topped with a fried egg or wrap it inside lettuce leaves for fun, hand-held bites. Another creative idea is to spoon it over crispy wonton chips for a crunchy, snackable twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, let the cabbage stir fry cool to room temperature first, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it a fantastic quick lunch or dinner option throughout the week.

Freezing

While fresh stir fries are best enjoyed immediately, you can freeze cabbage stir fry if needed. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags and store for up to 2 months. Keep in mind the texture of the vegetables, especially cabbage, may soften after freezing, but the flavors remain delicious.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat to preserve the freshness and texture. Stir frequently and add a splash of water or soy sauce if it feels dry. Microwaving is fine too, just be careful not to overcook it as it can become mushy.

FAQs

Can I use other vegetables in this cabbage stir fry?

Absolutely! Feel free to add broccoli, snap peas, mushrooms, or even baby corn. Just keep cooking times in mind to maintain crispness.

Is cabbage stir fry healthy?

Yes, it’s packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants. Using minimal oil and fresh veggies makes it a light, nutritious meal.

Can I make this dish vegan?

Definitely! Just ensure your soy sauce is vegan-friendly and avoid adding any animal-based ingredients. This recipe is naturally vegan as is.

How spicy will the stir fry be with red pepper flakes?

The red pepper flakes add a gentle heat that can be adjusted to your taste from mild to spicy. Start with less and increase as you prefer.

What can I use instead of vegetable oil?

Any neutral oil like canola or sunflower oil works well. Avoid strongly flavored oils to keep the balance of tastes intact.

Final Thoughts

This cabbage stir fry is a true crowd-pleaser that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Vibrant, flavorful, and wonderfully versatile, it’s the kind of dish you’ll come back to time and time again. So go ahead, give it a whirl in your kitchen — I promise it’ll brighten your dinner table and your mood!

cabbage stir fry Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 29 reviews

Author: Jack
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

A vibrant and healthy cabbage stir fry featuring crisp vegetables sautéed with garlic, ginger, and a savory soy-sesame sauce. This quick and easy dish is perfect for a nutritious weeknight meal and can be served on its own or over rice or noodles.

Instructions

Prepare Ingredients: Wash all vegetables thoroughly. Thinly slice the cabbage, julienne the carrot, thinly slice the red bell pepper, mince the garlic, grate the ginger, and chop the green onions.
Heat Oil: Place a large frying pan or wok over medium-high heat and add the vegetable oil, heating until hot but not smoking.
Sauté Aromatics: Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the hot oil. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn them.
Add Carrot and Bell Pepper: Toss in the julienned carrot and sliced red bell pepper. Stir-fry for 2 to 3 minutes until they start to soften but retain some crunch.
Cook Cabbage: Add the sliced cabbage to the pan. Continue stir-frying for 5 to 7 minutes until the cabbage becomes tender but still has a slight crispness.
Add Sauces and Spices: Pour in the soy sauce and sesame oil, then sprinkle the red pepper flakes. Stir well to coat all the vegetables evenly with the sauce and spices.
Season and Finish: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add the chopped green onions and stir briefly before removing the pan from the heat.
Serve: Serve the stir fry hot on its own or over cooked rice or noodles if desired for a more substantial meal.

Notes

Adjust red pepper flakes to control the spice level.
You can substitute vegetable oil with any neutral oil like canola or sunflower oil.
This dish can be customized by adding other vegetables such as snap peas or mushrooms.
For added protein, consider adding tofu, chicken, or shrimp.
Best served immediately to enjoy the vegetables’ crisp texture.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Stir Fry
Cuisine: Asian